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School-age children, contrary to much of the programming in schools, have not “outgrown” play. They play vigorously when given the chance. In fact, their play can take on much more risk-taking behavior than we may like at times. Giving school-agers opportunities to test their skills with a variety of challenging climbers sets the stage for success for these veterans of the playground.
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Fitness does not have to be addressed only through “fitness courses”. Well-designed superstructures for school-agers create opportunities for children to use all the key muscle groups and motor patterns in the course of free play. In fact, studies have shown children may be MORE active during free play on well-designed equipment than they are during structured physical education classes.
School-agers need to develop and refine upper body strength. Since American children are notoriously weak in this critical area of personal and physical development, varied overhead elements are appropriate. At GFP, we believe equipment which has multiple slides at the expense of climbers and overhead play elements fails to serve the needs of children. The more varied the equipment, the longer children use it and the more they benefit from it.
School-age children naturally test their skills and challenge their developing abilities. Elements which encourage climbing and overhead reaching develop strength, stamina, and cardiovascular fitness. Complex structures with many varied play options keep children engaged in meaningful, purposeful activity longer.
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